The Muskingum Lakes Chapter of the American Red Cross has opened cooling centers in Tuscarawas County as a service to the community. Two locations are available for people in need of relief from the high temperatures that have plagued the region this week.



Red Cross

1451 Forth Street NW

New Philadelphia

Closes at 4:30 p.m.



Tuscarawas County Senior Center

425 Prospect Street

Dover

Closes at 6:30 p.m.



Jeannette Meiser of the Muskingum Lakes Chapter of the American Red wants members of the community to understand the dangers of extreme heat. “We’re offering a place for folks to come to cool off. We are serving refreshments and have comfortable places for them to sit down,” said Meiser. “If someone comes in, we can give them something to eat and drink. There is a television here at the Red Cross location where they can relax.”

During a heat wave, it’s important to know and be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness. There are different types of heat-related illnesses, ranging from those that cause temporary discomfort to the generally fatal condition known as heat stroke. In all heat-related illnesses, the symptoms appear when a person is exposed to extreme temperatures for extended periods.

The best way to avoid heat-related illness is to stay cool and drink plenty of water.

For more information about the cooling centers contact The Muskingum Lakes Chapter of the American Red at 330-434-8633.